Praise Report

I have an update on my special prayer request patients. They are not out of the woods, but praise God they are making some improvement.

Clint is in a room and improving. A surgeon came in today and reported that his hernia is not healing like he wants it to and it will be addressed further down the road because he is not out of the woods yet. He doesn't feel that he will have problems with his stomach. If everything goes well, he will be transferred to rehab at the end of the week.

Andrew was sent to a brain trauma clinic in Atlanta. Today, he started PT, OT and speech therapy. He opened his eyes more and making grunt noises, which is good. Tonight, his heart rate spiked to 180. It came down to 140s.

Thank you for the prayers. I know their families appreciate it.

God Bless!

Special Prayer Updates

I have a couple of updates and praise reports on my special prayer requests.

Clint: Had a blood transfusion today. His blood pressure and heart rate is good.   A Pulmonary doctor is coming in sometime today, to do an overall consultation and make sure everything is okay.  He is still heavily sedated because he get agitated with all the tubes.  He does have a fever and a doctor has not come by yet to give any updates.

Andrew:  I have a praise report on Andrew.  His surgery went well.  He is doing good.  Last heard, they are weaning him off of the ventilator.  He had a fever, but sounds like that might be under control now.  His color is back.  Now, they are waiting for him to make movements on purpose.

Thank you for your prayers.

God Bless You!

Quick Update on Andrew

Thank you for all the prayers. Andrew is still in critical condition, but there is some improvement.

The pressure on his brain is low, running 9 now. Normal is 8. There is no bleeding in the brain area. The current prayer is that the circuity in the brain will begin to heal. He is still in sedation. They tried taking it off this morning, but it was too soon for him. Bo and Holly are so appreciative for all your thoughts and prayers.

Pray for Andrew

UPDATED (2): Family ‘hopeful’ CHS athlete injured in early-morning crash will recover

Andrew needs your prayers.  He was in a one car accident early yesterday morning, on his way to school.  His mom, Holly, has been keeping their church updated from the hospital.  Early this morning, the CAT scan showed small bruising on his brain.  There is swelling, but no meds are needed right now.  He is sedated in critical condition.  Above is the article released yesterday in the newspaper. 

I had the opportunity to worked with Holly several years.  I remember little Andrew coming to the office.  Such a cutie.  Doug and I attend Holly and her husband's wedding.  I adored working with Holly, such a sweetheart.  When I heard the news about this once little boy that roamed the hallways at the office was in a terrible auto accident, my heart sunk.  For one, it's hard to imagine a 7-8 year old boy being old enough to drive; much less, in critical condition from a accident.   Their church family came together last night in a special prayer vidgual.  As soon as I got home this morning, I've stayed close to the computer, waiting for updates. 

Thank you.

VBS "Panda Mania" 2011

As you know, this past week was our annual Vacation Bible School at church. I think it was a great success with 34 souls saved. I don't have a count yet as to how many children attended. Speaking of salvation, please pray for Katie. We've been talking quite a bit about God, Heaven, Jesus and Salvation for the several months. Of course, Katie wants to go to heaven and meet Jesus. It's what she has told me that she wants. Katie was so excited about M professing her faith the other day. That night Katie told me to pray for her to be saved.  We talked about it and she believes completely that God is real and alive. She believes in Jesus that he walked the earth and died for our sins, so we may be with God for all eternity in heaven. Personally, I don't know if Katie is ready (age) to receive Christ just yet. I think the whole M being saved, might have confused her a bit. We prayed about it. I do feel that God is working in her heart.  Last night, Katie and S wanted to talk to one of the counselors about salvation.  I knew one out of the two counselors.  I explained to Delaine and the other counselor about what we talked about the other day.  I also expressed my concern about her confusion.  Bottomline, Doug and I feel that a little peer pressure might be in play and we know that's not the proper way to salvation.  As a  small group, we all gathered and prayed because S wanted to go ahead and do the sinner's prayer.  I'm so happy for S and her decision to receive Jesus into her little heart.  I think after Delaine and Chelsey talked with Katie, I think they agree with me a little bit.  Delaine gave me a "Becoming a Christian" booklet to read with Katie.  She said it is great at explaining what's going on in her life and how to become a Christian on her level.  I can't say that Katie isn't saved, it's not my place and I'm not in God's way of working his blessings.  We just want to make absolutely sure Katiebug understands fully what it means to become a Christian. 

I think the girls had fun last night during the VBS celebration. There was music, face painting, food and inflatables. Here is a video of Katie and S singing and dancing to one of the songs that they learned this week. Katie is on the right side of the little girl with black hair. The little girl with black hair is S. I thought they did so well, especially being on stage singing in front of a large crowd.

S, Katie and M after their face painting - Red Pandas and Snow Leopard (characters from the VBS theme "Panda Mania")

Outside in the parking lot - 4 inflatables

Katie waiting in line to get up the double slide

Sorry this is a little blurry, my camera phone is very touchy.

While I was standing, watching the girls have a blast on the inflatables, I ran into an old acquaintance, Johnny J. Our dads use to work together many years ago. We use to visit Johnny's parents a lot while I was growing up. Johnny is much older than me, so he didn't give me a second look. I loved going to his house because they had a big orchard and always had animals. They use to have these bee hives by the orchard. I thought they were so neat.  His parents were always so sweet to me. I was shocked that Johnny recognized me because I haven't seen him since 1993, I guess. We both have changed a lot and he had more hair. LOL! Either way, it was good seeing him. He said he went to school with my husband, so it is a small world. I couldn't believe how much he knew about me these past few years. HAHA! I guess his parents and my parents have been talking about us. I got to meet his baby girl, Sarah. He told me that his family has been visiting our church for about a month. Doug doesn't remember him, so I guess I'll have to introduce him Sunday. 

Prayer Request

Prayer Request
I have a couple of updates on the prayers I've asked that I wanted to pass along to you.  (I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday)

• Michael underwent an angioplasty this past Monday at a hospital in B'ham.  Everything went well and he did good, considering.  He has blockage, so the doctors want to do by-pass surgery.  They had him go home later this week to get strong and HEALTHIER for the upcoming surgery.  He is not eligible for stints.  After two weeks, his doctor wants him to schedule the surgery.  Michael told my sister that he sees the error of his ways and wants to change for the sake of his family and himself.  Please pray for God's guidance, direction, encouragement and mercy for Michael.  I know he and his family would greatly appreciate it.
• I've mentioned my cousin Tanner a few times.  This past October was suppose to be his last chemo treatment (after 2 years of it).  Unfortunately, I just found out that his doctors told him that he would have to undergo the treatments for another 2 years.  Ugh!  (Laura, he is the teenager that is a NO Saints fan).  My uncle Bob called my mother the other night to let us know that they had to take Tanner to the hospital again.  His poor body is so susceptible to any and all illness at this point.  He seems to stay sick.  Anyway, he had a temperature of 106 degrees.  Of course, he's family is nothing but an emotional basket case.  Thank you for so many many prayers.  Please continue to pray not only for Tanner's weak body, but strength for his family and friends. 

Enjoying All The Thanksgiving Specials

I love my husband more than words can express. He is so intelligent and very electronics savy. Last week, he introduced to me the neatest program from our Directv DVR system. Now, I don't have to miss any Thanksgiving and Christmas special ever again. I can make sure they are all recorded with just a click of a button. The only trouble I had was to sink all the specials in the appropriate time slot, so they won't interlink with each other. Do you want to know how I did it? Well just follow these simple instructions:

1. You must have a Directv DVR system access.
2. On your Directv remote control, click the "menu" button.
3. Under Menu, select "Smart Search"
4. From here you can either type in the specific name you are searching or you can select one of four suggested searches, for instance, "Thanksgiving".
5. The suggestions are endless, but you must have access to the specific channels.

Happy Searching!

Because of this program, I've been able to watch Martha Stewarts' Thanksgiving specials, Throwdown with Bobby Flay Thanksgiving Special, Thanksgiving Unwrapped, and the Secret Life of Thanksgiving.  Katie is at the age to show interest in History, so I thought a couple of these programs would help her to understand.  I wanted to give her a visual.  She watched about 30 minutes of "Secret Life of Thanksgiving" and she told me that she's seen enough.  Of course, by that time they were into the secret life of Thanksgiving cooking traditions like how to cook a turkey, dressing and cranberry sauce.  She's not too excited about cooking as she is history.  LOL! By the way, these specials will be showing all week up to Thanksgiving Day. 

Katie Story
The things that comes out of babes' mouth?  Katie is five years old and I'm still amazed what she picks up.  On the way to school, we were talking about how she loves for her daddy to take her to school every Friday.  Out of the blue, she told me that he doesn't wear makeup.  Shocked, I repeated what she just said as to ask the question (did you just say this?).  She confirmed it.  I told her that boys don't wear makeup.  In mid-sentence, she said "yeah, it's because makeup is disgusting."  I'm sorry, but that made me crack up.  Only my child.  I hope she will continue to think makeup is "disgusting" until she is a teenager.  It sure would make my life easier.

Colton Tales 
YES!  He is beginning to show signs of talking.  I don't mean to worry, but my word every other child close to his age, that I  know, are saying words.  Colton will be 20 months old in a few short days and the only two words he will say are "momma" and "dada".  Last week, I was cooking and like every other time I told Colton "hot" and held my hand up.  Out of the blue, he held his hand up and repeated "ha".  Close enough for me.  I was so excited.  So now, when he eats and he sees me blowing on his food (to cool it down), he'll ask "ha".  If it is ha, he'll help me blow on it.

Yesterday, he said, "baww" which means ball.  He'll hold his ball and  tell me what is, "baww".  I'll have to sneak some video of him and his new words because his facial expressions kill me.  So funny. 

Thanksgiving Week
Well this time next week, we'll be bustling about trying to get the last minute preparations finished for our fabulous Thanksgiving meal, putting on  our best Thanksgiving outfits and loading up our vehicles for an evening of travel.  I absolutely love Thanksgiving and all it's timeless traditions:

• Macy's Day Parade
• Thanksgiving Day Specials on television like "Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving"
• All the old and new faces around the dinner table, sharing stories and the laughter
• Traditional Thanksgiving cooking
• Turkey and corn bread dressing served with gibblet gravy
• Mashed potatoes
• Assortment of casseroles, including sweet potato casserole ~ yum, yum! 
• Canned cranberry sauce
• Deviled eggs
• Pies galore ~ pecan, chocolate, pumpkin

Prayer Request

• Michael is my brother-in-laws' brother.  Yeah, I said that plural.  My two sisters married brothers.  Anyway, Michael is in ICU for an DO on prescription drugs.  Before you pass judgement, you must understand that he has had his share of physical pain and suffering.  I don't know what I would do, if I were in his shoes.  The DO was strictly by mistake because as soon as he felt weird, he called his brother.  Apparently, he is having some heart issues.  Doctors are trying to find him a hospital in B'ham to fit all of his needs.  Currently, he is struggling with detox at the hospital.  He needs God's peace and strength.  
• My nephew and nieces are going through a rough time at school.  They have all choosen the medical field and it's pretty tough.  I think they are all ready for a good Thanksgiving break, away from the stresses and strains of college life.  
• All the Thanksgiving travellers starting this weekend to head towards their destinations.  I hope they have safe travel.  

What The Weekend Holds

I hope to find that you have had a wonderful weekend. Ours has been busy of course. Friday, daddy insisted that we go to Martin's to view their mega supply of Bama football accessories, apparel and other stuff. Oh my gosh! If I had to guess, I would say that half of this store's inventory was Bama stuff. I would also add that it was all reasonably priced. I knocked out a couple Christmas gifts. Woo Hoo! You just can't imagine the stuff.

My children will not stop growing long enough for us to replenish our bank account. I had to pass down the new Levi jeans that I bought Katie for this Fall. I made a mistake buying slim, but they fit her in September. Last week, they were tight across the thighs. You talk about sick. Colton is in between sizes 18 and 24 months. One piece outfits like jon jons or overalls, he has to wear a 24 month. Separates, he could wear a 24 month, but he has a little waistline. I had to take in a couple of his pants around the waist, so he can wear them. Ugh!

As soon as Katie got out of school Friday, we headed for Belk. They have their girls Levi's 4-6x $18.99. I think this is a great deal because Levi's are normally $30 something and they fit so much better on Katie than other jeans. This time I had her try on the jeans before I bought them. The 6 regular fit fine, but thinking of next month I thought it would be best to go with the 6x regulars. Thank goodness for adjustable waistlines. The length looks great on her. Her other jeans size 5 made her look like she was wadding in water, if you know what I mean. Belk has so many pretty dresses for church and sweet Christmas outfits. Peggy picked up the pink and red corduroy snowgirl pants set for her. Sooo cute! While we were there, we had to check out the sea of Nutcrackers. That's one of many things Katie and I love is looking at all the different styles of Nutcrackers. She absolutely loves them. I've started her a small collection. When she's older and still loves them the way she does now, I'll have to get her a real Nutcracker from the German store here in town called "A Touch of German." I've started a tradition with Katie. Around Christmas time, we go to the store and just look at all the Nutcrackers. They are beautiful and to watch her eyes light up makes it much more special for me.

Ballet
Speaking of "The Nutcracker,"  Maryann, Katie and I went to Katie's Ballet School to pre-order our tickets for December.  Peggy, Mom, Whitney and Natalie are hopefully going with us.  This pre-order is suppose to guarantee us the best seat in the house.  While we were there, we got a sneak peek of some of our dancers practicing.  They've been hard at it, learning the performance since the beginning of the month.  I just hate it that Katie wasn't eligible to audition for a part.  One of her girlfriends from school was there practicing.  Katie wanted to know why she couldn't dance, if "A" got to dance.  Aww!  I felt bad for her, but had to explain that she had to be at least 6 years old to audition.  This wasn't Mrs. Elaine's rules it was the director of the Montgomery Ballet, which are the professionals that will be the main performers.  Us ballet moms and dads are hoping this performance will be a great success, so they will come back.  Maybe Katie will be able to audition for a spot then.  We are pretty excited to see it, especially because we know the young lady that will be playing "Clara."  If you live in the area and would be interested in purchasing tickets for this ballet, Ballet School will give you one more opportunity to pre-order tickets next Saturday, October 30th.

Halloween
As you know, I bought a gingerbread Haunted House kit for Katie and I to put together.  I figured we would put it together next Saturday, but she has been aggravating me since I got the thing.  "When are we going to put together the Haunted House mom?"  "Are you ready to put together the Haunted House?"  "Mom, you promised we'd put together the house today!"  Ugh!!!!  Katie is so much like me IT SCARY!  She is so impatient and when she wants something done, she wants it done yesterday.  I know, I'm paying for my raising.  Or that's what my mother loves to bring up from time to time.   After church today, I finally gave in.  I haven't seen Katie move that quick.  By the time I turned around, she had on her apron and wanted me to tie it.  I had to give her the dreaded "we've got to prep our area first" speech.  She absolutely hates prep work, but it's got to be done.  My prep work means, clear off our work space, clean our work space, get all the utensils we need ready and within hands reach, mix up the ingredients that we'll need and have it at hands reach, pull back the hair and lastly WASH YOUR HANDS! 

Once prep time was finished, I pulled out the gingerbread house and placed it on the cake dome.  Katie picked out a picture that she wanted her haunted house to look like.  Maryann told me yesterday how she had fun putting together a gingerbread house with Natalie last year for Christmas.   I told her how much fun I had putting this house together when I spoke to her on the phone.  Ugh!  All she could do was giggle at me and remind me that I was dealing with a 5 year old, while Natalie was 19 years old at the time.  It's not like it was difficult or anything, it's just that Katie wanted me to finish as soon as I started, so she would put on all the candies.  She lost interest quickly when I told her she couldn't eat the icing or more importantly the house right away.  Of course, Colton was right there in the middle of it all.  He tried a time or two to snatch a few candied M&Ms.  Thank goodness Peggy and Millard came by to visit.  They were able to hold him off of my project for awhile.  It wasn't long before everyone headed outside for a little bit and here I was, by myself, to finish the bless'd haunted house.  I didn't take any pictures tonight because I want to get some dyed coconut to put around it for appearances.  I must warn you, it looks like I was drunk putting this thing together.  Katie kept moving the table, while I was piping in the windows and door.  Yeah, it's one silly, wacked out haunted house.  LOL!  But Katie really likes it and more importantly she wants to EAT IT.  I'm hoping to get her to hold off until next Friday or Saturday before she eats the house.  I also told Katie and Colton that they had better enjoy this haunted house because it will probably be my last for a long time.

Movie Review
Letters to Juliet - starring Amanda Seyfried and Chris Egan. Rated PG
Wow!  I absolutely love movies like this one.  Sweet romance that blooms overnight.  I don't want to give any of it away.  I thought it was a really good movie and of course I enjoyed getting to see the Italian landscapes, so beautiful.  I would recommend it to all romantics at heart.   By the way, Chris Egan "Charlie" isn't too bad to look at. ;)  The British accent is an added bonus.



The Backup Plan - starring Jennifer Lopez.  Rated PG-13
This is a definite Chick Flick!  I loved this movie, so funny.  You've got to see it! 



Prayer Request
Doug and I ran into one of our former co-workers this weekend.  Since the last time I saw "MJ," I found out he changed jobs, he and his lovely wife had two more children and they built a house.  When we saw him this weekend, he told us that he has been layed off and is having a tough time finding a job.  Man!  It absolutely kills me how the economy is still down the stinker.  I really wish it would pick up and everyone has their many opinions on how it got this way and what we need to do in order to change it.  Bottomline, so many good, honest citizens are losing their only means of income.  Thank the dear Lord above that MJ's wife still has her job, but with three small children and a huge mortgage, it's got to be hard.  I just ask you to please remember them along with so many millions of other people that are having a rough time right now finding work. 

Praise Report

I have a couple praise reports to pass along to you this Friday night.

I've asked for your prayers for my niece, Liz. She's been having problems (physical) and had to go through a tough ordeal to search for answers. Well praise God, her pain has gone away. Doctors went ahead and did the procedure and it went well, but she hasn't had any pain since then. The dear Lord heard the prayers and granted his mercy on her. Please continue to lift her up in prayer. Thank you!

My friend, D, with colon cancer got some great news this week. Her doctor reported that the treatments worked and the polyp has shrunk. Of course, we know it was because of the grace and power of our Lord God that shrunk the polyp. What a Big and Mighty God we serve! She is to go back next month to review all test results and the doctor should easily remove the polyp without any problems. Thank you so much for all your prayers! God is TRULY GREAT.

Getting Ready For A Life Change

Ballet Time
Katie's eyes were big when I told her last night that we have to go get signed up for ballet.  Bless her heart, she thought she had ballet class today.  She was so hoping to get to start, but I had to tell her that classes are still a few days out.  She gets to move up this Fall from the pink ballerinas to royal blue.  This tells me, I'm going to be out of some money because I can't just go to Academy, Walmart or Target to get Katie's leotards.  Getting her leotards at these places has saved me some money, but we'll have to buy them at the school this year.  We dropped off a few of Katie's leotards, from last year, at the school to sell.  While we were there, I priced the new royal blue leotards, to get an idea.  Ick!  The cheapest plain ones were still $15 a pop.  Ugh!  This doesn't include the skirts, which are a must.  Fortunately, she is allowed to have different colored skirts.  I might be able to buy them cheaper at the big retail stores.  Lets just hope Katie's old leotards sold, so we can use that money towards new ones.  Of course, I picked a day and time that no one else is signed up yet.  I do this every year.  So, more than likely I'll have to pick another time for Katie's lessons.  This year, the Ballet Theatre School is offering tap dance for Katie's age.  I was tempted, but she really wants to be able to take jazz next year. 

Mark it on your calendar, the Montgomery Ballet Company and CBS are coming together to bring the famous ballet performance of "The Nutcracker" to our hometown.  Yay!  Ballerinas ages 6-adult have the opportunity to audition for parts in the performance.  "The Nutcracker" will be performed at Wallace State College in Hanceville on December 3 & 4 at he Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre.  For more information, CLICK HERE.

Join the Gym
We stopped by the gym today, to pickup my paperwork and have a few of my questions answered.  To my disappointment, I didn't get what I really wanted.  Doug acted as if he didn't want to join the gym.  Well, in order for me to get daycare for the kids, he'll have to join.  Ugh!  I was so hoping to go as an individual and get the individual price just for the fitness and not pools.  Well, the lady informed me that I would have to get the family plan in order to get daycare that it's not offered with just an individual plan.  And who thought of this idea?  I started to ask what do they offer for a single parent, but I didn't go there.  I told Doug and he guesses he'll just have to go.  I think their open until 9:00 at night, I believe.  We'll work something out to get our monies worth.  I even asked the lady if I could put my dad or mom under the family plan and she shot me down again.  Let's just hope it's worth it!  I had better loose some major weight with this kind of commitment. 

Growing Deep in the Christian Life
Now, to add to my new life schedule for this Fall and Winter months, I plan to do a bible study (on my own).  I started this study once before when Katie was an infant and had to stop because that was about the time my mom got sick.  So, here we are again.  Instead of starting where I left off, I've decided to start over. I have no idea if I would remember what I did learn.  The study is from the book "Growing Deep in the Christian Life" by Charles R. Swindoll.  It's an intense study, so I plan on taking it slow.  This study may take me a year to finish that's how slow I'm going to take it.  I've got my notebook, reference books and bible on my nightstand ready to get started.  You'll probably get a glimpse from time to time from my readings.  So, hold on ladies, I might get fired up.  LOL!  

Great Belk Offers and Sweepstakes
August 10th - Civil Service Appreciation Day - 10AM-9PM - Belk is celebrating "Civil Service Day" by offering an exclusive 20% discount on regular and sale priced purchases (15% discount on home items and shoes) with very limited exclusions for local government, fire & police, city chamber and other civil service employees who present a valid work ID. For details, please contact your local Belk store.

August 13-22 - Chaps Gift with Purchase Event - 10AM-9PM - Receive a FREE "Chaps Denim True American Brand" tee shirt with any purchase of Chaps Denim jeans from August 13 - 22, 2010.* *Limited supplies available. Offer good while supplies last. Offer good only with purchases of qualifying Chaps Denim Jean. Offer available for "Chaps Denim True American Brand" tee shirt only and may not be applied to any other tee shirt.

August 14th - KidFest - 12PM-3PM - Celebrate the last days of summer with music, refreshments, a fashion show, games, prizes & more! Plus register for your chance to win a $500 children's department wardrobe and a trip to Great Wolf Lodge and Indoor Water Park! Contact your local Belk store for details or to find out how you can participate in our fashion show.

August 26th - Bridal Engagement Party - 6PM-9PM - Calling all brides and grooms for an evening of refreshments, wedding registry and prizes! Register to Win: $1,200 travel certificate for air or cruise travel, $1,000 in cash, $2,000 worth of Carolee jewelry, $1,000 Belk Gift Card, and more! Plus, create or add to a qualified registry and receive $25 off any regular or sale purchase of $75 or more. Visit your local Belk store's Home department for complete details.

For more information or to find a Belk closest to you, CLICK HERE.

Prayer Request
My cousin, Lissa, just informed me of her son's fiance, Elizabeth's illness.  Lissa's son, Abe, is to be wed to Elizabeth in the next couple of weeks.  She has bad Migranes occasionally lasting 2 weeks and sometimes shooting pain in her eyes.  She was diagnosed as having a mild case of MS.  I've heard how MS can make it difficult for some to function an everyday normal life.  Of course, we would love it if God would heal her body.  If it's not his well, I ask that he will relieve her pain and discomfort. 

Doug's aunt is doing better since the doctor adjusted her meds.  The hallucinations have gone away for right now.  Thank you for all the prayers. 

Normally, I don't list people on my prayer list from people whom go to our church.  I don't do this because there are SO many and it would take one very long post alone.  However, I do have exceptions.  I attend church with Tom and I'm sure he could really appreciate your prayers.  He is currently in the hospital.  At first he was diagnosed with shingles on his head and now I got a report from another class member that went to visit him.  He has meningitis now, caused from the shingles.  Tests have been run and the doctor hopes he will have the bacterial meningitis and not the viral.  Thank you for the prayers!

Prayer Request

My blogger  friend, Julianna , still needs your prayers.  She's back home, but still has some symptoms and the doctors don't know what's wrong with her or what could have caused this.  She listed all that has happened to her.  I know she would appreciate it. 

I have a praise report.  My friend Allison's daughter did well during her procedure Friday.  She's home and continues to do well. 

My friend, D, did well her first week back at work. 

A Photographer's Dream and Bride's Fairytale Wedding

Prayer Request
A blogger friend and follower is going through some medical problems. She needs your prayers. Julianna is in the hospital for pneumonia and a whole slew of other symptoms like coughing up blood, pulse is very weak, blood pressure is out of whack and she blackouts within a drop of hat.  Doctors are currently treating her pneumonia, but are still searching what could be causing the other symptoms.  I'm sure Julianna  could use some encouraging words because she misses her little boy so bad.  Personally, I know how it feels to be separated from your children for any long period of time.  I remember when mom was in the hospital, I wouldn't have seen Katie for 2-3 days.  She was in good hands with Doug's parents, but you get really depressed and think your going crazy unless you at least speak to them for a short moment.  I can't imagine the stress of it all, having your child watch you being hauled away in an ambulance and your baby is crying from being scared.  Plus, you're concerned as well because paramedics can't get a pulse.  Please remember her and her family in your prayers.

D started back to work this week.  She's happy being surrounded around her colleagues, but it will probably be a little overwhelming at times.  I pray God will give her strength and energy to make it this week. 

This prayer sounds so minimal and insignificant after reading the top two requests, but I'll be needing your prayers in the next few days.  If you've been keeping up with my posts, I've been an emotional rollercoaster.  Katie will be starting school soon and will be gone all day, 5 days out of the week.  Sure she was in pre-school last year to give us a short example of what was to come.  Like any mom, you have so many emotions flowing.  You're excited for your child growing up and experiencing so many new things, but in the same breath you hate to see them growing up.  I want them to have a full happy life, but in the same sense I want them to stay babies.  Someone whom I can hold, rock, snuggle and love on.  I love my hugs and kisses!  

My sister and niece are trying to survive wedding arrangements.  This wedding is being planned well in advance (2 years), but it's because Lord willing, the wedding will take place in a chapel on the Berry College Campus at Frost Chapel in Rome, Georgia.  Anxiety and nerves are already high, they need your prayers and lots of valium.  (Just kidding)  Leslie and Chase want to wait two years because Lord willing, she'll graduate nursing school the December before the set date, which is May.  They are still working on an actual day, but it will be most definitely be in the month of May. 

Now to the Fairytale . . .

The Wedding of the Year - Chase & Leslie
Nothing is set in stone, but they have less than two years to get everything together.  Immediate members of both Chase and Leslie's families went on a short trip to Rome, Georgia last weekend, to view the Berry College Campus.  Just to make sure this is the right place for them.  All I've ever heard out of Leslie's mouth, since she's been engaged, was how much she would LOVE to be married at the Oak Hill Plantation.  Since she wants a wedding in May, her outside plantation wedding went to the Frost Chapel.  From what I understand, the Old Mill Water Wheel and Swan Lake are not too far from the chapel.  I've never heard of this place until Leslie filled me in.  Then, I got to see her pictures on Facebook from their little weekend away.  I'm in LOVE!  It's a photographers dream along with any bride-to-be.  You talk about fairytale in the middle of nowhere.  Berry has a very cherished treasure hidden and only 2 hours away from us.  Yay!  I told Leslie that after seeing those pictures, I'm so excited.  It will be great because by that time, Colton will be 3 years old and Katie almost 7 years.  This would be a perfect place for me to put my creative hat on and have fun taken photos.  I LOVE the Swan Lake.  Below, I added some photos that I found off the web, including Charis Photography website. 

Frost Chapel at Twilight

Inside Frost Chapel

Oak Hill Plantation
This is the Berry Plantation featured on the movie (Carmichael), "Sweet Home Alabama."
Originally, Leslie and Chase wanted the wedding to be held on the grounds of the Oak Hill Plantation, but weddings in the South in the month of May are normally very wet. 

Frost Chapel, Berry College

Chase & Leslie hope to be able to wed here, but we'll see if the date is available

Inside Frost Chapel

I love the stone walls, arched windows and stained glass

Old Mill Water Wheel - not far from chapel

Would make a beautiful background.  Leslie told me deer were everywhere when they were there

Swan Lake - not far from chapel

Swan Lake with stone bridge in background - I LOVE IT!

Isn't this so beautiful?

Oak Hill Plantation (Carmichael Plantation from "Sweet Home Alabama" movie)

Colton and Katie Story

I have a sweet story that I had to post for Colton. I was sitting in the floor trying to play with him, but he didn't seem interested in the toys I was playing with. All of the sudden, I noticed he was doing something to my hair. As I slowly peered around, he had a brush in his hand. He was brushing my hair. It's obvious that he's been watching me and Katie brushing each others hair. I thought that was so sweet, he knew what to do with the brush. When I asked him what he was doing, I could see his little smile behind his passy.  He is such a sweetheart. 

We received a letter from Katie's new teacher, Mrs. M. I thought it was very sweet that she wrote two separate letters. One for Katie and one for us parents. At CCPS all of the Kindergarten classes have themes. Seeing some of the rooms first hand last Spring, I can tell you that some teachers take it to the extreme. Well, Katie's room is "Clifford the Big Red Dog." I think Katie liked the fact she'll be in Clifford's room. Apparently, there's a Clifford dog painted on the hallway wall, right outside the classroom door. He is there to welcome all the students. Mrs. M enclosed a coloring page of Clifford for Katie to color. I figured she would just color the dog red and maybe some other color for the background, but Katie did a great job. She drew a yellow sun with orange rays, green grass with pink daisies. Of course, she wrote her name in pink, her favorite color. I'll have to take a picture of it to add to her digital art file. I'm hoping in the next couple of years to make her an art collage of all of her best pieces into one big wall art frame.

Thursday, I'm suppose to meet with Mrs. M and have a lot of my questions answered and get some unfinished business done. I don't know if Doug's going to be able to make it with me. He's been working ALOT because they are shipping a rocket.

Friday, me, the kids and maybe Millard and Peggy are going to the Open House at school. Katie is so excited. I made the mistake of telling her today about the Open House. Now, she wants to go to school tomorrow. Ugh! She misses school so much, but I can't get it through her head that a lot of her old friends will not be there.

I know Katie's ready for school because she's at the point where she is bored all the time.  With the temps hovering around 100 degrees, we can't go outside to play.  She's almost finished her workbook that we started in April, but she's at the point where she's getting tired of it.  I gave her the water paints a few weeks ago, she doesn't like to paint as much as draw or color.  I showed her how to trace, but that didn't last long.  I've had some time to do short crafts with her out of cheap paper plates.  There's just so many episodes of Hannah Montana and Phineas and Ferb.  We are ready to go to school. 

Prepare for Football Season

College Football season is fast approaching. As you should know, I'm a BIG University of Alabama football fan aka "Bama". Their first game is schedule on September 4th at 6PM CST at Tuscaloosa. They will battle against San Jose State and thankfully, it will be aired on television.  We are really hoping to have the opportunity to attend the Ole Miss and Mississippi State games.    Whoo Hoo!

Me sitting here in the air conditioning, while it's a balmy 100 degrees outside with a heat index that is suppose to be around 110.  I'm so ready for the cool weather, the roars of the Bama fans in the stands.  For a few hours, you are accompanied by thousands of new friends, all routing for the #1 team in the deep South - Alabama!  Ahhh, the smell of hot dogs, nachos and cheese and popcorn, while yelling at the officials for making the wrong call. 

Now saying all of this, I have one question for you.

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

Flip Flops and Pearls  introduced me to a cute little shop Preppy Princess.  They have some cute gifts, everything from accessories to things for around the house.  You'll have to check them out.  An added bonus Flip Flops and Pearls has a special discount code that could get you 15% off your purchase from  Preppy Princess .

What does that have anything to do with football you ask?  Well, as I was browsing around the shop I discovered the cutest personalized collegiate flags for you to display proudly your favorite team.  I'm in love with this garden flag.

I just watched a video from Alabama Crimson Tide website on the South End-Zone Update  on the stadium.  It looks awesome!  If you'll click on the video dated July 16th, it will take you on a tour of the new South End-Zone.  So many added amendities for the #1 Bama fans.  An added bonus ladies, they are putting in shops and restaurant to stay open year round.  YAY!  You'll have to check it out. 

Alabama Football's Annual Fan Day is scheduled for Sunday, August 8th.  The team will hold an open practice at the Bryant-Denny Stadium this day from 2:30-4:30 p.m.  Players and coaches will be available to sign autographs soon after practice is over on the field.  For more information, CLICK HERE.

Yea, Alabama Song
Yea, Alabama! Drown 'em Tide!

Every 'Bama man's behind you,
Hit your stride.
Go teach the Bulldogs to behave,
Send the Yellow Jackets to a watery grave.
And if a man starts to weaken,
That's a shame!
For Bama's pluck and grit have
Writ her name in Crimson flame.
Fight on, fight on, fight on men!
Remember the Rose Bowl, we'll win then.
So roll on to victory,
Hit your stride,
You're Dixie's football pride,
Crimson Tide, Roll Tide, Roll Tide!!

U of A Alma Mater

Alabama, listen, Mother,

To our vows of love,
To thyself and to each other,
Faithful friends we'll prove.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true,
Heart bound to heart will beat.
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

College days are swiftly fleeting,
Soon we'll leave their halls
Ne'er to join another meeting
'Neath their hallowed walls.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true
Heart bound to heart will beat
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

So, farewell, dear Alma Mater
May thy name, we pray,
Be rev'renced ever, pure and stainless
As it is today.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true
Heart bound to heart will beat
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

Prayer Request
I'd like to update you on my friend, D.  She's doing much better.  In fact, she spoke to Doug the other night, while I was getting the kids ready for bed.  Doctors have given her the green light to go back to work, but not to overexert herself.  She seems so excited to be going back to work this coming Monday.  Eventhough, she is feeling better doesn't mean she's out of the woods just yet.  She will be scheduled a biopsy of the polyp in her colon that started all of this mess.  Once the doctors see how the cancer is responding to the treatments, will map out future treatment.  Thank you for all the prayers. 

My Diva Performing and Great Deals

I've had Katie's dress-up boxes down from her closet for the past couple of days. She's had a ball, dressing up and modeling in front of her dad and I. Last night, she discovered her microphones, so she wanted to do a concert for Colton and myself this morning. What got me tickled was how Colton was playing with his microphone. I didn't get it on tape, but he was dancing with his mouth on top of the mic. You should have seen his eyes (shocked) when he accidentally pressed the button on the Little Mermaid mic. Too cute!

Quick Colton Story
I was so proud of him this morning. During our playtime, I handed him a small stuffed cow. He took it from my hand and put it in his F-P barn. I was shocked, but it's encouraging that he is paying attention to our playtime. He knew where that cow belonged. Also, he picked up one of his balls and put it in his ball pit. He is beginning to enjoy books more now. I'll catch him getting out one of his books and just look at the pictures. In the mornings, he'll sit and watch Sesame Street while eating his breakfast.

Diva's Ready For School
Doug and I have knocked out Diva's school supply list, except for the nap mat. The school has the soft cloth mats with pillows available to purchase for $25. The secretary said they haven't come in yet, but they are very nice with velcro closure. I don't have to purchase theirs, but I don't see why not especially for that price. I ordered her backpack from Mountain Sports the other day.  I think Katie will like her new mesh backpack, I just hope it won't swallow her up too much.  HAHA! I know little "C" had a backpack similar to this one, she could handle it somewhat and she was a first grader this past school year.   Hey, at least we know she'll grow into it.  Here's a picture of the backpack, we should get it sometime today.

We have our school Open House on Friday, August 6th.  Lord willing, we'll get our letter so we will know who Katie's teacher will be by that time.  HAHA!  The school secretary assured me that we should receive the letter with all the information by the last week of July.  Talk about waiting until the last minute because the first day of school is August 10th.  Oh well, I just like having my ducks in a row. 

I plan to take Katie school clothes shopping next week.  I guess, I shouldn't say "school clothes", but school shoes and anything she needs right now shopping.  LOL!  Her Summer clothes and sandals are still in good condition, so I don't think I'll be getting any new.  If I find a really good deal on Fall/Winter outfits, I might get them in the next size up.  I say this because I went overboard at the beginning of school last year and she ended up going up a size before she got to wear her Fall/Winter clothes.  Last school year, she jumped two sizes before the year was over.  Ugh!  So, I've learned my lesson and plan to either go up one size or wait until she has out grown her other outfits.

The Children's Place has a great deal right now on jeans and t-shirts.  Their jeans/pants are regular $16.50, but they are on sale for $10.  You can't get them that cheap at Walmart and they hold up very well.  The great thing about their jeans is they have the inside adjustable button sides, which is great for little waists, but long legs.  Long legs, but small waists has been our problem in the past and I love getting the adjustable inside buttoned pants. You've got to check it out.

If The Shoe Fits, Etc. is currently having a 50% off sale on all clearance shoes and sandals.  There are some really good deals.  It would be great, if you knew what size your little one would be next Spring and Summer. 

Lilly's Kids from Lillian Vernon has all of their Back to School items out ready to get your child personalized.  I love Lillian Vernon!  Being a pretty good customer, they have good quality stuff. 

Lenox is having a 12 Days of Christmas in July sale, going on right now.  In fact, today is day 2 out of the 12 days, so don't wait around too long.  There are some really pretty things in this sale that are very inexpensive.  Take advantage while you can. 

School Bus Cookies

Prep Time: 20 min.

Bake Time: 12- 15 min.
Decoration Time: 30 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: Makes 24 bus cookies.
Recipe Courtesy of Bright Ideas

Ingredients
1 roll (18 oz.) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
2/3 cup flour
3 cups prepared vanilla frosting
 ¼ cup prepared chocolate frosting
1 cup M&M’S® Brand Chocolate Candies
¼ cup M&M’S® Brand MINIS® Chocolate Candies
Yellow and green food coloring
Baking sheet
Spatula
2 resealable plastic bags
Microwave-safe bowl

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Knead the sugar cookie dough and flour until smooth. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a scant 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out the shapes, re-rolling the scraps if necessary. Then, use the spatula to transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven, transfer to a wire rack, and let cool completely.
4. Tint 1/2 cup of the vanilla frosting green, place it into a resealable plastic bag, snip off a small corner, and set aside. Tint the remaining vanilla frosting yellow, and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 10-20 seconds, stirring every 5 seconds until the consistency of slightly whipped cream.
5. Spoon the heated frosting over the cookies one at a time—completely covering each one. You may have to scrape up excess frosting and reheat it to cover all the cookies. Let the frosting dry for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove the cookies from the rack and scrape any excess frosting from the edges.
6. Spoon the chocolate frosting into one of the resealable plastic bags. Snip a small hole from the corner and pipe frosting for decoration. Then, using the photo as a guide, add M&M’S® Brand Chocolate Candies. Finish by snipping a small hole from a corner of the plastic bag with the green frosting and piping on the names.

Tip:

•  To eliminate frosting from the recipe, just add 3 or 4 drops of yellow food coloring to the dough while kneading in the flour. Then, once the cookies have cooled, adhere the M&M’S® Milk Chocolate Candies to the cookies using dots of decorating frosting. Kids love to be involved. Many steps in this recipe are perfect for kids of all ages:
• Children as young as two can help with measuring and mixing ingredients. Filling measuring cups with the ingredients and kneading the dough can remind them of activities they already do on a day-to-day basis.
• Children who are older will love rolling out the dough. Of course, when it comes time to cut the cookies everyone can lend a hand.
• Remember, decorating is a personal expression. Everyone will love sharing their creations with family and friends.

Prayer Request
A high school friend and his wife have had trouble, like Doug and I, starting a family.  After trying and stressing, God heard their many prayers and blessed them with a little girl about 3 years ago.  Well, J told me how he and his wife would like to have one more child before they called it quits.  They were very happy to finally get pregnant again.  Unfortunately, J emailed everyone stating that their little boy "Grant Elijah" was born to heaven on July 10th.  I can't begin to imagine what they must be going through right now.  His facebook is flooded with regrets and supportive messages from his family and friends.  Please ask God to lift him and his family up in your prayers.  If he didn't live so far away, I'd give him a big ol' hug.  J is a man of God and his faith has kept him going, but he is still a man with pain in his heart. 

A family member is having a hard time dealing with their ailment.  The meds her doctor put her on is making her hallucinate, which is one of the many side-effects.  We just hope that he will change them because she said she can't take it anymore. 

Role Playing

Role Playing
Today, Katie came up with the idea of creating a museum in our Living Room. We put together different themed exhibits(farm yard, sports, trains, ocean life, etc.). She even had to change into her museum outfit, as you can see from the picture. Her adding the pink/red rain boots seemed to complete the ensemble. LOL! Of course, me being her only customer, I had to go around to each exhibit with her and talk about how exquisite everything was displayed.

A Visit

Saturday, we visited Doug's aunt and uncle. They sold off all their livestock, but we did get to stroll through the garden.

Katie walking between the pole beans and tomato vines

Pecan Tree

Fig Tree

Just a swingin'

Katie crushing a soda can

Prayer Request
D, isn't doing well.  The radiation didn't do well.  She's back to not keeping any down and the radiation burns are real bad.  She is understandably upset with all of it.  Of course, the doctor won't release her to go back to work anytime soon, with all that's going on.   

Just A Little Update

Swimming Lessons
Just a few photos to share with you from Katie's swimming lessons.  She was so sad that they ended.

Katie waiting to go to Swim Class

Katie practicing kicking those fins

Katie practicing her reaching technique

I was so proud of Katie on Friday. She swam a very short distance from the edge of the pool to Mrs. RA without any help or flotation device. For a reward, RA let her swirl around in the whirl pool for a little bit. Katie said it was so much fun.

She had been begging to swim at her aunt June's for a few days. So, I thought it would be nice if Doug could watch Colton, while Katie and I spent the day together. We had a great mommy and daughter day. After our last swim lesson, we had breakfast together, rented a movie and headed over to mom and dad's to go swimming. Katie did so good jumping into the pool and swimming without help. Now that she has learned to hold her breath well, going under the water that is all she wants to do.

Colton Gets His Hair Cut

Colton getting his hair cut professionally

I was so proud of him, he sat so still

Prayer Request
My friend, D, that I've asked for prayers isn't doing well at all.  Treatments were stopped week before last because of her physical condition.  She is currently in a lot of pain and can't keep anything down.  So, it was felt that the treatments had to put on hold until her physical body could try and gain some strength.  She told another friend of ours that she has peace and knows that it is in God's hands. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

My mother spoke to my great aunt Mary the other day and she sounds very weak.  She is home from the nursing home and glad to be back home.  She will be celebrating her 100th birthday very soon.  Mom, dad and Maryann will be visiting very soon.  I know aunt Mary will be so pleased to see them.